33 vs 34 for Ivy League

Test Preparation
1

I’m currently debating the merits of retaking the ACT as a second-semester senior. I received a “high” 33 the first time I took it last April (35 R 35 E 33 S 30 M). With my June score (also composite 33) I have a super-score of 34. And yes, I know this is incredibly last minute, but I’m considering taking the February exam for the few schools that will accept it. I had some personal issues over the fall that distracted me from the college process, and I’m now very concerned that my score will hurt me from top schools (i.e. Penn, Georgetown, Vandy, Yale, Brown, etc.).

For reference: I am an unhooked, middle-income white female from NYC. In my opinion, my extracurriculars may be exceptional enough to counteract my ACT scores (I am an author and poet published by a notable publishing house). EC’s aside, though…insight into this issue would be much appreciated.

2

Going from a 33 to a 34 will move you from the class median to the top 25% at most of the Ivy League and similar schools. Whether that helps you significantly, nobody can tell…

3

If you think you are in a position to improve on the 33, for that target list of schools I’d give it a shot.

4

Will they really take your scores that late? I would think they would have read your app and decided by the time you have the test scored (including the writing). Remember, they won’t send the ACT until the writing is scored.